"My study abroad experience was a once in a lifetime opportunity to meet new friends, experience a new culture, and visit breathtaking landscape."
| Home Institution | Subject area studied at Ulster | Campus at Ulster |
|---|---|---|
Carroll University, United States of America | Life and Health Sciences | Belfast |
How does your home institution campus compare to Ulster University?
My home institution campus has much less students and has much less diversity when it comes to students. Ulster University provides many events and top quality facilities that make it a great place to study. My home campus has many buildings 10+ where class takes place, however, Ulster has 3 buildings that are very close which makes it very easy to navigate.
What were your highlights from your mobility experience
My favourite moment was Welcome Week being able to meet all of the exchange/foreign students. I was able to go to a hockey game and Giant's Causeway week 1 which allowed me to meet many people and experience the amazing landscape of Northern Ireland. I also enjoyed going out to the pubs, visiting downtown Belfast architecture, and trying the diverse restaurants.
What cultural similarities/differences did you notice?
The culture of Northern Ireland was very welcoming. People were very helpful when I asked questions about getting around campus, using the campus facilities and resources, and the best things to do in Belfast.
I noticed that professors and lecturers were very engaged in the academic material and were very personable which made class go smoothly. All professors were able to meet 1 on 1 to provide assistance which was helpful.
What challenges did you encounter? And how did you overcome them?
One challenge I had was finding the best phone plan for me while studying abroad. After conversing with my peers I was able to find a carrier, and find the best suitable plan and SIM card.
Another challenge was walking to get groceries which was a new experience, but I was able to bring a backpack and use the reusable bags to bring food to my housing.
Did you find it easy to meet new people and make friends?
Personally, I found it easy to make friends. Orientation/ Welcome Week allowed me to an opportunity to exchange phone numbers with other exchange student. Being able to live in a flat at LIV Student accommodation allowed me to meet my local friends who I lived with.
Did you travel to other places?
I was able to travel to downtown Belfast, Carrickfergus, The Gobbins, Giant's Causeway, and Derry/Londonderry in Northern Ireland. I was able to visit Dublin for St. Patrick's Day, Galway, Cork, and the Cliffs of Moher in Ireland. When my parents visited I was able to visit London in England, and Edinburgh in Scotland.
Any words of wisdom for students thinking about studying abroad?
Make sure to plan your budget so your are comfortable with all of your upcoming expenses. Food in Northern Ireland is very fresh so you may need to buy groceries or eat on campus more frequently.
Lastly, make sure to take advantage of Orientation Week by meeting as many students, exchanging phone numbers, and making a group chat.
Jackson's Visual Diary
